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HB 191

Revise crime of endangering welfare of child

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Curtis Schomer

Montana law revises child endangerment crime definitions and criminal penalties to modify how prosecutors pursue and courts sentence cases involving threats to child welfare.

Chapter Number Assigned
#crimes #criminalprocedure #minors
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Bill Summary · HB 191

Legislative bill overview

HB 191 revises Montana's legal definition and penalties for the crime of endangering the welfare of a child. The bill modifies existing statutes governing what conduct constitutes child endangerment and adjusts criminal consequences. The measure has completed the legislative process and been signed into law as of April 7, 2025.

Why is this important

Child endangerment laws form a foundational element of child protection systems, affecting how prosecutors pursue cases, what sentences courts impose, and ultimately how the criminal justice system responds to threats to child safety. Changes to these definitions and penalties directly influence enforcement practices across Montana counties and can significantly impact families and communities.

Potential points of contention

  • Scope of "endangerment" definition: Revisions may broaden or narrow what specific behaviors qualify as criminal endangerment, potentially affecting prosecutorial discretion and whether borderline cases are pursued
  • Sentencing adjustments: Modified penalties could result in harsher or more lenient sentences for similar conduct, raising questions about proportionality and consistency in child protection responses
  • Intersection with child protective services: Changes may create ambiguity about the line between civil child welfare interventions and criminal prosecution, affecting coordination between agencies

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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